HARRISBURG –The Pennsylvania House of Representatives advanced legislation Tuesday, April 14, to help eligible first responders who get COVID-19, direct the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council to gather data on the health care response, allow businesses to reopen if they choose and adhere to safety guidelines, and help notaries do their work via audio-video communication, according to Rep. Tom Mehaffie (R-Dauphin), who supported the measures.

“We took important steps to help the business community, while continuing to protect Pennsylvanians through social distancing and best practices to limit the virus’ spread,” Mehaffie said.

Senate Bill 613 would allow the construction industry and other businesses to reopen if they follow safety measures aligned withCenters for Disease Control guidelines.

Senate Bill 841 directs the PA Health Care Cost Containment Council to gather data on COVID-19, including provider staffing, costs, and sourcing of supplies and equipment. It contains an amendment to allow notaries to notarize legal documents with electronic communication.

House Bill 1189 would require health care facilities to notify the Department of Health of certain demographic data within three days. It would alsoextend benefits related to COVID-19 to those first responders who are subject to the Heart & Lung Act.